WHAT HOMEOWNERS NEED TO KNOW
A significant update to British Columbia’s lien laws is coming into effect on June 30, 2025, with the introduction of the new Commercial Liens Act. This legislation consolidates and modernizes the province’s outdated lien statutes across various industries—including motor vehicle repair, warehousing, and other commercial services. While it does not replace the existing Builders Lien Act, the changes are important for homeowners, developers, and anyone involved in property or asset-based construction and storage.
🔍 What’s Changing?
The Commercial Liens Act streamlines the lien process across sectors where services are provided and payment disputes may arise. For example, under the new act, mechanics, storage providers, and logistics companies will have clearer, more enforceable rights to register and collect on liens for unpaid services.
Although these changes don’t directly alter the Builders Lien Act (which still governs home construction and renovations), they reflect a broader shift toward faster lien registration and increased creditor protections. That’s why it’s critical for property owners to understand how lien exposure could affect them—especially if they’re involved in mixed-use properties, commercial ventures, or own equipment or vehicles tied to their business or farm operations.
⚠️ What This Means for Property Owners
- Lien exposure is expanding: If you store vehicles, lease land for commercial use, or engage in business activities on your property, you could be affected by the new legislation.
- Disputes may escalate faster: The new rules simplify the process for filing liens, which could lead to more frequent or earlier filings in service-based disagreements.
- Clear title matters more than ever: Unresolved liens—even unrelated to home construction—can interfere with refinancing, property sales, or obtaining insurance.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
Whether you're building, storing, or operating a business from your property:
- Request written contracts and proof of payment from all service providers.
- Verify ownership and title regularly, especially if assets like vehicles or machinery are involved.
- Work with legal professionals to review lien risks for multi-use or income-producing properties.
- Ask for lien waivers or statutory declarations where applicable.
🧭 Our Advice
While the Builders Lien Act still governs home construction projects, this new legislation signals a wider legal environment that favours lienholders and speeds up claim processes. For homeowners and landowners on the Sunshine Coast—especially those engaged in agriculture, construction, or commercial use—this is a good time to review your contracts, service agreements, and title protections.
Need help reviewing how this might affect your property or future plans? We’re happy to connect you with trusted legal professionals and help you understand how to move forward with confidence.